Texas is known for its long stretches of highways and interstates, connecting its major cities and towns. However, with so much driving comes the risk of accidents, and some highways in the state are more dangerous than others.
The top 10 most dangerous highways in Texas include I+-45 in Houston (from Route 5 to Exit 50), Forest Hill and Kennedale, Fort Worth and Euless, Lyndon B. Johnson Freeway (I-635), I-45 in Houston (between Airtex Drive and Mt. Houston Road), I-35 in Austin, Tomball Parkway (TX-249), Marvin D. Love Freeway (Hwy. 67), and I-35E.
Top 10 Most Dangerous Highways In Texas
1. Interstate 35E (I-35E)
This is a north-south highway in Texas that runs through the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. The deadliest stretch of this highway between 2017 and 2019 was between downtown and Dallas Love Field, which saw 20 fatal accidents. This part of the highway is approximately 10 miles long, and it leads to various parts of downtown Dallas.
Interstate 35E is one of the most dangerous highways in Texas. The Highway has a notorious history of fatal accidents caused by drivers failing to follow traffic laws and signals, such as running red lights and stop signs, failing to follow the right way, and ignoring speed limits.
2. Marvin D. Love Freeway (Hwy. 67)
Marvin D. Love Freeway (Hwy. 67) is a major freeway in Dallas that connects the city’s southern suburbs to downtown Dallas. This stretch of the highway between Camp Wilson Road and Illinois Avenue saw 15 deadly crashes between 2017 and 2019.
The highway is 11 miles long, and it is known for its high traffic volume, especially during rush hour. Speeding, reckless driving, and distracted driving are the main reasons for accidents on this stretch of the highway.
3. Tomball Parkway (TX-249) in Northwest Houston
Tomball Parkway (TX-249) is a 14-mile highway in Northwest Houston that connects Houston to Tomball. The highway saw 14 crashes between Antoine Dr and West Greens Road, making it one of the most dangerous highways in Texas.
The main reason for accidents on this highway is distracted driving, such as texting or using a phone while driving, which can cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles or fail to react to changing road conditions in time.
4. I-35 in Austin, between exit 244 and the Rte. 290 interchange
Interstate 35 (I-35) is a major highway in the United States that runs through six states, including Texas. The stretch of I-35 in northwest Austin, between exit 244 and the Rte. 290 interchange, saw 14 fatal crashes in two years. This stretch of the highway is approximately 7 miles long and is known for its high traffic volume, especially during rush hour.
Reckless driving and speeding are two major causes of accidents on these highways, with many drivers ignoring the posted speed limits, weaving in and out of traffic, and failing to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.
5. Texas 12 Loop in Dallas
Texas 12 Loop is a 17-mile loop that runs through the eastern and southern parts of Dallas. This part of the Texas 12 Loop in South Dallas saw 12 deadly crashes, coming out to one death for every 2.5 miles.
The highway is known for its high traffic volume and multiple exits, which can confuse drivers. Poor road conditions, including potholes, uneven pavement, and inadequate lighting, have contributed to many accidents on these highways, as drivers lose control of their vehicles or fail to see obstacles in their path.
6. I-45 in Houston, between Airtex Drive and Mt. Houston Road
Interstate 45 (I-45) is a major north-south highway that runs through Texas, connecting Houston with Dallas. This particular stretch of I-45, located between Airtex Drive and Mt. Houston Road, is approximately 7 miles long and is the second section of I-45 through Houston to make the list of deadliest roads.
Inclement weather conditions, such as heavy rain, fog, or snow, can reduce visibility and make it difficult for drivers to see other vehicles, pedestrians, or obstacles, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
7. Lyndon B. Johnson Freeway (I-635) through Mesquite and Garland
Lyndon B. Johnson Freeway (I-635) is a major highway that runs through the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. This stretch of the highway through Mesquite and Garland, from Jupiter Road to the I-30 interchange, saw 12 fatal crashes.
The highway is known for its high traffic volume, especially during rush hour, and is prone to congestion and delays. Fatigue or falling asleep at the wheel is another common cause of accidents on these highways, with many drivers pushing themselves to drive long distances without taking proper breaks or getting enough sleep.
8. TX-183 through Irving, Forth Worth, and Euless
State Route 183, also known as TX-183, is a major east-west highway in Texas that connects Fort Worth to Dallas. The stretch of TX-183 between N. Industrial Boulevard and N. Beltline Road saw 12 fatal accidents, mainly due to speeding, reckless driving, and distracted driving.
Also, this part of the highway is known for its sharp turns and narrow lanes, which can increase the risk of accidents.
9. I-20 through Fort Worth, Forest Hill, and Kennedale
Interstate 20 (I-20) is a major east-west highway that runs through Texas, connecting Fort Worth to Dallas. This stretch of I-20 through Fort Worth, Forest Hill, and Kennedale saw 12 fatal accidents or 2.8 per mile.
Vehicle malfunctions such as tire blowouts, brake failures, or faulty steering systems, have been known to cause accidents on these highways, sometimes resulting in catastrophic injuries or fatalities.
10. I-45 in Houston, from Route 5 to Exit 50
This stretch of I-45 in Houston, from Route 5 to Exit 50, saw 11 fatal accidents between 2017 and 2019. The highway is approximately 9 miles long and is known for its high traffic volume, especially during rush hour. It is one of the most dangerous highways in Texas.
Many of the accidents on these highways can be attributed to the prevalence of driving under the influence, with many drivers operating their vehicles while impaired by alcohol, or drugs. Also, the highway has several exits and merges, which can confuse drivers.
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Conclusion
Driving on Texas highways can be a thrilling experience, but it’s important to remember the risks involved. The highways on this list are just a few examples of the most dangerous highways in Texas, and they serve as a reminder of the importance of safe driving practices.
From speeding to reckless driving and driving under the influence, many factors contribute to the high number of fatal accidents on these highways.